Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills or Nandidurg is an ancient hill station in Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. It was built by Ganga Dynasty and is near the town Nandi. 

The Nandi hills are the origin of Arkavathy river, Ponnaiyar river, Palar river, Papagni river and Penna river.

These hill are well known for its sunrise view.It is called Nandi Hills because the hills resemble a sleeping bull. Another reason is that it derived from an ancient 1300 year old Dravidian style temple of Nandi(Bull) situated on this hill.

History:

Nandi hills was developed by Ganga Dynasty in 11th century. Nandidurga was believed to be impossible to defeat and when Cornwallis's army took it on 19 October 1791, it became one of the key moments in the first war against Tipu Sultan of Mysore.

The climate at the top of the hill supports horticulture. Several plant species were introduced into an experimental garden. The vegetation of the hills is typical of high hills. Exotic plants such as Eucalyptus and Coffea arabica along with native species are planted here.

Nilgiri woodpigeon, shaheen falcon, peregrine falcon, malabar whistling thrush can also often seen at Nandi hills. Tipu Sultan developed a fort here which is called Tipu's fort. 

How To Reach:

Karahalli cross is the nearest bus stop at a distance of around 6.5 KM. You can take a local taxi or bus to reach the hills. 298MK bus halts at Nandi hill.